The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, officially launched the Provincial Summer Disaster Risk Reduction Awareness Campaign in Harding, under the uMuziwabantu Local Municipality and uGu District Municipality, on Monday, 20 October 2025.

Strengthening Community Preparedness Ahead of the Rainy Season

The launch marks a major step in the province’s proactive efforts to minimise the impact of floods, storms, and other climate-related disasters that often occur during the summer season. Premier Ntuli was joined by the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Honourable Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, local government leaders, and representatives from disaster management agencies.

In his keynote address, Premier Ntuli emphasised that disaster risk reduction is a shared responsibility, requiring strong coordination between government, communities, and private partners.

“KwaZulu-Natal has faced recurring natural disasters over the years. This campaign reminds us that preparedness, education, and collaboration are the first lines of defence in protecting lives and livelihoods,” said Premier Ntuli.

Equipping Municipalities for Effective Response

As part of the day’s proceedings, Premier Ntuli handed over state-of-the-art disaster relief equipment and tools to local municipalities within the district. These include rescue boats, tents, mobile communication kits, and emergency response tools, which will enhance the province’s readiness during the high-risk summer period.

The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to disaster readiness and rapid response, highlighting that municipalities are now better equipped to act swiftly in times of emergency.

A Coordinated Approach to Disaster Management

During the event, Premier Ntuli outlined a comprehensive provincial disaster management strategy, focusing on prevention, mitigation, and community awareness. The plan emphasises multi-stakeholder collaboration, ensuring that disaster management structures at district and local levels are fully operational and capable of responding to emergencies.

MEC Buthelezi commended the Premier’s leadership, noting that the campaign represents a shift from reactive to preventive disaster management — ensuring that communities are informed, empowered, and resilient.

Building Resilience and Inspiring New Hope

The Provincial Summer Disaster Risk Reduction Awareness Campaign will roll out across all districts of KwaZulu-Natal, prioritising flood-prone and high-risk areas. It aims to educate communities on early warning systems, evacuation protocols, and climate adaptation practices.

Premier Ntuli concluded by urging all citizens to play an active role in safeguarding their communities during the rainy season:

“Disaster preparedness is not only the duty of government — it begins with every household. Together, we can build a province that is safer, more resilient, and ready to withstand the challenges of climate change.”

The launch in Harding sets the tone for a unified provincial response to summer disasters, reinforcing KwaZulu-Natal’s commitment to protecting lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure — while inspiring new hope through collective action and preparedness.